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GOLDEN, Colorado (August 8, 2004) PENTAX Imaging Company will bring the best of both worlds to photographers with two smc PENTAX-D FA interchangeable lenses − the smc PENTAX-D FA Macro 100mm F2.8 and the smc PENTAX-D FA Macro 50mm F2.8. The latest series is designed to optimize image quality in both digital SLR and film photography. Each lightweight macro lens features an image circle to accommodate 35mm format and offers close-up to life-size magnification.

Major features of the lenses include:

High-performance Optical Design to Optimize Digital Imaging Well known for advanced optical design technologies, PENTAX optimizes the optical characteristics of the new lenses with lens coating and curvature and positioning of optical elements. In particular, lens flare and ghost have been reduced to a minimum for clear, high-quality digital images.

Aperture Ring for Fingertip Aperture ControlEach lens is equipped with an aperture ring to accommodate the lens-set Aperture-priority AE and Metered manual modes assuring fingertip aperture control from the shooting position.

Compact, Lightweight DesignBoth the smc PENTAX-D FA Macro 100mm F2.8 and the smc PENTAX-D FA Macro 50mm F2.8 are designed to be extremely compact and lightweight, compared to conventional macro lenses. Downsizing and weight reduction are achieved through the compact, high-performance optical elements and the incorporation of durable yet lightweight exterior components. The filter size is standardized at 49mm.

Comparisons of the new lenses with conventional smc PENTAX-FA Macro Lenses include:

Smooth, Effortless OperationsThe wide focusing ring assures speedy, high-accuracy focusing operations in Manual-focus mode, while the ring is uncoupled with the autofocus mechanism and locked in place without rotation in Auto-focus mode.

Quick-Shift Focus SystemWhen mounted on the PENTAX ＊istD, these lenses feature an innovative "Quick-Shift Focus System" that allows photographers to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring.

Additional Features Include:

Built-in focus-clamp mechanism to fix focus at any distance

A Large lens hood to effectively shield the lens surface from excessive incident light

Metallic lens mount for extra durability

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, spotting scopes, eyepieces, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan. # # #
(First posted on Sunday, August 8, 2004 at 14:02 EDT)